Domestic abuse is the abuse of someone within an intimate or family relationship. It is the repeated, random and habitual use of intimidation to control another person – usually a partner, ex-partner or other family member.

Abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, financial, sexual, or a combination of these. Anyone forced to alter their behaviour because they’re frightened of someone’s reaction is being abused.

Report Abuse:

If you are in immediate danger, phone 999, or get someone else to phone, and state whether you need the police, ambulance or fire service. Move to a safe place, avoiding kitchens or stairs, and stay near a door for a quick escape. If in doubt, get out.

If the situation is not an emergency, but you still need the police, call 101.

If you need general advice, information or support:

• Get information resources, and a searchable directory of services for people experiencing domestic abuse, and for professionals at endthefear.co.uk, Manchester’s multi-agency Domestic Abuse website
• Contact Manchester Women’s Domestic Abuse Helpline a free, confidential line whose staff can provide advice, help you formulate a safety plan, and access refuge spaces across the country. Tel: 0161 636 7525.
• Male victims of abuse can get help and advice from mensadviceline.org.uk on 0808 801 0327
• Phone the National Domestic Violence Helpline 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247
• If you are concerned about your own behaviour, and worry that you already are or could become abusive, get support at disrespectnobody.co.uk